Wealthy tech entrepreneurs are known for their competitive nature, whether it’s venturing into space, acquiring lavish yachts, or even challenging each other to unconventional contests. The Rejuvenation Olympics, a recent online leaderboard launched by tech millionaire Bryan Johnson, takes this rivalry to new heights. The competition centers around “reversing“ one’s age, focusing on slowing the process of biological aging rather than physical prowess. But is this a legitimate scientific endeavor or a high-stakes game of one-upmanship among the rich and powerful?
The Rejuvenation Olympics:
Participants in the Rejuvenation Olympics compete by striving to slow their “biological age” through lifestyle adjustments such as dietary changes, physical activity, and regular age testing. It’s not about turning back the clock, as that’s biologically impossible. Instead, contestants vie to age at the slowest rate, with the goal of never “crossing the finish line.” Notable figures like DJ Steve Aoki, biohacker Ben Greenfield, and longevity advocate Peter Diamandis have joined the competition. The leaderboard includes both recognized names and anonymous contenders.
The Bryan Johnson Approach:
Currently leading the Rejuvenation Olympics is Bryan Johnson, a 46-year-old tech millionaire. Johnson’s unconventional lifestyle choices reflect his dedication to not just appearing young but becoming biologically younger. He claims to consume an astonishing 70 pounds of vegetables monthly, undergoes blood transfusions from his 17-year-old son, and even uses a red-light cap for hair growth. His extreme regimen comes at a staggering cost, with reports indicating he will spend at least $2 million this year on slowing his biological aging.
The Ultrarich Pursuit of Longevity:
Among the ultrarich, the quest for longevity is a prominent endeavor. Last year alone, over $5 billion in investments flowed into longevity-related companies worldwide, with tech founders and investors actively participating. Some companies focus on organ regeneration and gene editing, while others explore biological reprogramming. Notable names like Jeff Bezos, Sam Altman, and Larry Page have invested heavily in this sector. However, the hype and financial investment often lead to extravagant claims and pseudoscience.
The Epigenetics Connection:
Epigenetics, a field examining gene expression influenced by environment and lifestyle, holds promise in understanding the aging process. Epigenetic age tests provide insights into biological age, which considers factors beyond chronological age. These tests, now available to consumers, are used to motivate healthier lifestyle choices. However, they do not offer a fountain of youth or a guaranteed path to longevity.
Separating Science from Snake Oil:
While legitimate research explores extending human lifespan, caution is essential. The ultrarich’s fascination with longevity has led to the promotion of unproven treatments and products. The pursuit of living longer should be grounded in evidence-based science rather than pseudoscience and sensational claims.
Conclusion:
The Rejuvenation Olympics and the broader quest for longevity among the ultrarich exemplify the fascination with defying aging. While epigenetics offers valuable insights, the path to a longer, healthier life remains complex. As the wealthy invest billions in this endeavor, the line between science and pseudoscience blurs, highlighting the need for rigorous research and skepticism in the pursuit of extended lifespans.